Tony (name changed for confidentiality reasons), a senior professional was excited as he was about to join a new organisation in a leadership role. He had made a list of things that he would do on joining and had also developed an action plan. I could feel his excitement when he came to me for coaching him on navigating the first 90 days on joining a new organisation.
The first thing I encouraged him to do was to drop all that he knew because it would be a mistake to simply start implementing an action plan without first understanding the nuances of the new company and the role. As it is said- First understand, then be understood.
Whether you’re about to join a new company or have recently taken the leap, the first 30-90 days are crucial for establishing yourself and setting the stage for success. So before diving into proving your worth, consider adopting the mindset of a diligent student. And what does a good student do?
3 Things:
1] Observe Like a Pro:
As you step into your new workplace, resist the urge to dive straight into tasks and projects. Instead, channel your inner drive and observe everything around you. Pay attention to the subtle nuances of the work environment, the interactions between colleagues, and the unspoken norms of the office culture. By observing with a keen eye during your initial days, you’ll gain valuable insights into how things operate and what is expected of you.
2] Listen with Intent and Purpose:
Effective communication is key to success in any role, and active listening plays a pivotal role in this. Take the time to truly listen to your boss, team members, and colleagues. Listen not only to their words but also to their tone, body language, and underlying messages. Engage in meaningful conversations, ask clarifying questions, and demonstrate genuine interest in understanding the perspectives of those around you. By listening attentively, you’ll gain valuable insights into the dynamics of your new team and the expectations placed upon you.
3] Ask Thoughtful and Probing Questions:
Don’t hesitate to seek clarification or dig deeper into topics that arouse your interest. Asking insightful questions demonstrates your curiosity, engagement and commitment to understanding your new role and responsibilities. Be proactive in seeking out opportunities to learn and grow, and don’t shy away from asking for guidance or feedback when needed. By asking good quality questions, you’ll not only deepen your understanding but also build rapport with your colleagues and establish yourself as a proactive and engaged leader and team member.
By adopting these three strategies – observation, active listening and asking quality questions – during your initial days, you’ll equip yourself with a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling career journey. Remember, settling in takes time, so be patient with yourself. Embrace this period of discovery, immerse yourself in your new environment, and watch as your career progresses faster than ever before. Here’s to your exciting new beginnings!
P.S: To know about our 1:1 Career Coaching programs, please click links below:
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Navigating The First 90 Days In A New Company
Best Wishes!
Sarabjeet Sachar
Seasoned Career Development & Leadership Coach
Founder & CEO, Aspiration